CRTC seeks comments on neutrality of Internet data pricing plans

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today announced that it is examining differential pricing practices related to wireline and wireless data plans. The CRTC’s review will include a public hearing starting on October 31, 2016, in the National Capital Region.

Differential pricing occurs when the same or a similar product or service is offered to customers at different prices. An example is when an Internet service provider exempts a particular application, such as a music or video streaming service, or a set of applications, from data charges.

Canadians are invited to submit their comments on the following questions:

How should differential pricing practices be defined in relation to the provision of Internet data plans over wireline and wireless networks?

What are the benefits and concerns about these practices, and do these concerns outweigh the benefits as to justify regulatory intervention?

The CRTC is accepting comments until June 17, 2016. Canadians can participate by:

filling out the online form,

writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Ottawa, Ontario K1A ON2, or

sending a fax to 819-994-0218.

The CRTC is looking at this issue following the receipt of applications regarding Videotron’s Unlimited Music service, which exempts several music streaming services from data charges under certain mobile plans. The CRTC will rule on the Unlimited Music service on the basis of the broader record on differential pricing practices.

Jean-Pierre Blais, Chairman and CEO, CRTC, said: “Differential pricing is emerging in Canada and elsewhere as a more common practice. Service providers appear to be attempting to distinguish their services and attract customers through such practices. This consultation will enable us to better understand the potential benefits and risks to consumers, application providers and Internet service providers. Our aim is to develop a clear and transparent regulatory approach that will provide certainty. The CRTC, like other regulatory agencies in other jurisdictions, continues to be concerned about the impact of such practices on net neutrality.”